Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2014

Floor Speech

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Mr. POCAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to introduce an amendment to the Defense appropriations bill, and I want to thank Chairman Young and Ranking Member Visclosky for their efforts on this important legislation.

My amendment would help improve the safety of advanced batteries, which are critical to both our new energy economy as well as to our current and future Department of Defense missions.

Advanced energy technologies not only produce good-paying, high-quality American jobs, but they also reduce our dependence on foreign oil, protect the environment, and lead to the advancements of new energy-efficient sources that are more effective. Thus, it is no surprise that our military requires this type of innovative technology to meet its expanding needs. Longer lasting energy sources mean our military's transportation and weapons systems are more effective in the field and limit safety risks that arise from refueling or recharging. More efficient energy capabilities mean a more efficient, more effective, and safer military.

On that front, lithium-ion batteries represent some of the most significant clean energy advancements of our recent history: they contain no toxic chemicals; they have up to three times the performance capabilities of other battery products; and they are required for many of the military's next generation weapons systems. Their need will only increase, but as often is the case with new technologies, improvements need to be made in order to ensure their safe and effective use.

Current lithium-ion batteries can cause violent fires with extreme smoke and high temperatures that are potentially catastrophic, especially on ships. As a result of these safety concerns, the acceptance and adoption of many lithium-ion-powered Navy systems under development are greatly delayed, thus greatly limiting our ability to respond to emerging threats.

None of us here want to have any members of our military in danger, but we don't have to choose between improving our operational capabilities and keeping our courageous servicemembers safe. We are not far away from these types of advancements. New research has produced high-temperature material compounds that can significantly extend the maximum temperatures at which the batteries can safely operate.

We need to continue to develop and test these innovative compounds that require further research and development support. That is why I introduced this budget-neutral amendment, which I am proud to have introduced with Congressman Cárdenas--to provide for the necessary funding for research, development, and testing to improve the safety of advanced batteries.

I now yield 2 minutes to my friend from California, Congressman Cárdenas.

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